Young drummers and pipers playing together on a showground

Your
questions.
Our band.

Everything you need to know about
Bomber County Pipes & Drums —
our people, our music and how to get involved.

Frequently asked questions

A shared passion.
A welcoming community.

We’re often asked about our history, how to join, what to expect and how we support all our members. Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, we’re always happy to chat.

General & band history

Our story, our values and what makes Bomber County special.

Who are Bomber County Pipes & Drums?

Bomber County Pipes & Drums is Lincolnshire’s premier Highland pipe band, bringing together highland tradition and our region’s proud aviation heritage. We perform at community events, parades, civic occasions, weddings and memorials across Lincolnshire and beyond, creating unforgettable performances and keeping the sound of the Highlands and Lincolnshire’s wartime story alive.

How did we get our name?

Lincolnshire is known as “Bomber County” for the RAF bomber airfields that were based across the county during the Second World War, home to the Lancasters of Bomber Command. Our name honours that heritage: we bring together Highland tradition and our region’s proud aviation history, keeping the sound of the Highlands and Lincolnshire’s wartime story alive.

Do I need a military background to join?

No. We welcome members of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. You don’t need to be a seasoned professional — just reliable, enthusiastic and committed to weekly practices. Find out more on our Join the band page.

Joining, learning & membership

All abilities, all backgrounds, always welcome.

Do I need prior experience to join?

No! We welcome complete beginners as well as experienced players. Our friendly team will support you from your very first lesson, whether you’re new to pipes or drums or returning after a break.

Do I need to own my own pipes or drum?

Not to get started. Quality instruments are provided for learners, and our instructors offer full tuition with a clear progression path. Mention what you play (or would like to learn) when you get in touch and we’ll talk you through it.

How do you support neurodivergent members?

We’re a neurodivergent-friendly and inclusive band. That means a flexible learning pace with no pressure, structured rehearsals with sensory breaks, and patience and peer mentoring — our members and instructors offer encouragement at every stage.

Do I need a formal diagnosis to join?

Everyone is welcome at Bomber County Pipes & Drums, whatever their background or ability. If you’d like to talk about anything that would help you settle in, please get in touch — we’re always happy to chat.

What if I have sensory sensitivities?

Our rehearsals are structured and include sensory breaks, so there’s a considered and supportive environment for everyone. Let us know what helps you when you get in touch, and we’ll talk it through together.

Do you teach and support dyslexic or dyspraxic members?

We welcome members of all abilities, and everyone learns in their own way. You can learn at your own pace with full tuition and a clear progression path, in a supportive, friendly environment. Tell us what works best for you and we’ll be happy to talk about it.

How do you help with schedules or executive dysfunction?

Our rehearsals follow a clear structure, and we publish all upcoming dates on our website and member channels so you can plan ahead. Learning is at a flexible pace, with patience and peer support along the way. If there’s something else that would help, just let us know.

Can I join without playing an instrument?

Yes. Supporters and non-playing members help keep the band on the move with event logistics, PR, administration and more — a chance to use your skills and be part of the team behind the music. You can also support the band through Bomber County Hangars, our supporters club.

Rehearsals & bookings

Where we practice, how we perform and how to book the band.

When and where do you practice?

We rehearse weekly at venues across Lincolnshire, with a friendly, structured and supportive environment. Rehearsal times are usually in the evenings and we publish all upcoming dates on our website and member channels.

How can I hire the band for an event?

Send us an enquiry with your date, location and the type of occasion through our booking form, call 01780 431262 or email contact@bcpd.org.uk. From a lone piper to the full band, we perform across Lincolnshire and surrounding counties — see pipe band hire for the options.

Neurodivergent-friendly & inclusive.

Flexible pacing, clear rehearsal structures, sensory breaks and patient peer mentoring.

  • All abilities welcome

  • Neurodivergent inclusive

  • Clear structures & support

  • A kind & patient community

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Get in touch — we’re here to help.

Send us a message